She was married to Ronald (Mort) Altmire for 39 years before his death in 1992. Several years after Ronald's (Mort's) passing, Betty found her second love, Colman Faria, who she shared her life with until his passing in 2008.

Born in Utica, New York, she was the daughter of the late William and Sophie Miller. She graduated from New Hartford High School, New Hartford, NY, Class of 1950.

A resident of Chelmsford since 1975, Betty was a member of the First Church of Christ Scientist, Lowell, where she served on many boards and committees. She also volunteered at the Adult Day Care Program at the Chelmsford Senior Center. Betty enjoyed bringing her beloved dog "Katie" to local nursing homes to visit with the residents. She always brought a smile to everyone's face.

Betty's pride and joy were her children and grandchildren. She loved going to every game her grandchildren played in, every event they had at school and made sure to be part of their everyday lives.

Betty loved music and singing and shared that love with everyone she met.

Betty is survived by two daughters and a son in-law, Linda and Kirk Avila of Chelmsford, MA and Susan Altmire of Highlands Ranch, CO; a sister, Dorathy Burnett of Ft. Lauderdale FL; a sister in-law, Jeanne Pierce and her husband Bill of Intervale, NH; two grandchildren, Kelly Avila and Kristopher Avila both of Chelmsford; many nieces, nephews and very dear friends.

There will be no visiting hours. A Memorial Service will be held at Dolan Funeral Home 106 Middlesex Street North Chelmsford, MA Thursday, September 24 at 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her name to Chestnut Hill Benevolent Association, 910 Boylston St., Chestnut Hill, MA 02467. ARRANGEMENTS BY DOLAN FUNERAL HOME 978-251-4041.

Funeral

September 24, 2015

11:00 AM

Dolan Funeral Home

We are so sorry to hear about Betty’s passing. She was a good Christian Scientist, friend, and supporter of both of us while we were in Chelmsford . Since we left MA we had talked to her a few times on the phone and always found her a pleasant conversationalist.

Back while we were in MA, Betty often called “just to chat” and get an update on our family’s doings. She was also very helpful to us when we sold our pond-side Chelmsford house with our $10 ad in the local newspaper! We also think of Mort when reminiscing over our Massachusetts days; he was a big help to us in doing repairs on our house and we were delighted when the wages we paid Mort made it possible for him to meet the minimum requirements for Social Security eligibility which, in turn, apparently made a big difference for Betty when Mort passed away.

I have fond memories of my surprise visit back to Massachusetts after moving to Cleveland, to attend Betty and Coleman’s wedding.

Beetty was a wonderful and devout member of our church. She was always willing to take on any job that needed to get done and was a very loving perosn. She was always a friend and was not afraid to let you know if you might want to consider a different alternative when doing thins and was a good sounding board for advice. She will be sorely missed and my heart goes out to all the family members.

Dear Sue and Linda, I feel blessed to have known Betty for just a short period. She radiated joy wherever she was, and I loved singing with her, because she loved it so much, too. That joy does not go away, and I hope you can remember that even though you will miss her. May you find the strength and peace she would want you to have.

Linda and Sue, I am so grateful to have been able to meet your wonderful Mom. I feel like I knew her through all the wonderful stories that Sue shared with me throughout the years. I know what a terrible loss this is for you and your family, but you are so fortunate to have been so close and to have had such a loving relationship. Cherish those memories and know that when things get tough, I am her for you to listen and provide a hug of support! Take care!